Dehydration in children

Dehydration can occur when the body loses too much water.

Symptoms of severe dehydration

• A lack of interest in playing and extreme sleepiness. (The child may be so sleepy that he or she is difficult to wake up.)
• A dry mouth and tongue
• A sunken soft spot (fontanel) on top of the head
• Sunken eyes without tears
• Fast breathing and rapid heartbeat
• No urination (a dry diaper) for more than 12 hours

Severe dehydration is a medical emergency. Call 911 or other emergency services immediately.

Symptoms of moderate dehydration

• A decreased interest in play
• A sunken soft spot (fontanel) in the head
• Sunken eyes with few tears
• A dry mouth, with little or no saliva
• Extreme hunger or thirst
• No urination for 8 hours or fewer than 3 urinations (fewer than 3 wet diapers) in 24 hours

Symptoms of mild dehydration

• Irritability, agitation, fussiness, or restlessness
• Hungry or thirsty most of the time
• Less frequent urinations than usual or needs fewer diaper changes. The child's urine will have a stronger odor and be darker yellow than normal.